This week in Tunbridge Wells:

New Homes Approved for Horsmonden Amidst Orchard Reinstatement and Village Hall Debate

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, to consider a hybrid planning application for Bassett's Farm in Horsmonden. The committee ultimately approved the application, which includes 120 new dwellings and a medical centre, alongside significant community contributions. However, the decision was not without discussion, particularly concerning the reinstatement of orchard areas and the specifics of a contribution towards a new village hall.

Bassett's Farm Hybrid Application Approved

The committee granted planning permission for the hybrid application at Bassett's Farm, Goudhurst Road, Horsmonden¹. This application comprises a full application for 120 dwellings and an outline application for a new medical centre. The decision was made subject to the completion of a Section 106 legal agreement and a series of conditions.

The application had previously received a resolution for approval in April 2025, but was brought back to committee to consider three amendments. These amendments included:

• Affordable Housing Tenure: Altering the affordable housing tenure split to 60% social rent (29 units) and 40% intermediate tenures or other affordable routes to home ownership (19 units). This aligns with Policy H3 of the adopted Local Plan².
• Village Hall Contribution: Including a financial contribution towards a new village hall, calculated at £719 per bed space, totalling £280,410. This contribution is considered CIL compliant³ and justified by Horsmonden Parish Council⁴.
• Reinstatement of Orchards: The reinstatement of two orchard areas that were removed in error in January 2026 and replanted in February 2026. The replanting involved mature apple trees and was confirmed to have minimal impact on Biodiversity Net Gain⁵.

During the meeting, Councillor Darrow, the ward councillor for rural Tunbridge Wells and a resident of Horsmonden, declared an interest in the application due to their involvement in local issues related to the development.

Christine Fisher spoke in objection to the application, raising concerns about the impact of 170 houses (referring to the total number of dwellings including the adjacent consented site) on the village character, pressure on roads and public transport, and the need to preserve farmland.

Judith Ashton, the agent for Persimmon Homes⁶, spoke in support, highlighting that the site is allocated in the Local Plan and already has a resolution for approval. She emphasised that the changes were to ensure compliance with the adopted Local Plan policies and to provide the justified village hall contribution.

Councillor Alison Boone, representing Horsmonden Parish Council, appreciated the revisit to the village hall contribution. She noted that the Parish Council is inexperienced in Section 106 agreements and is seeking training. The Parish Council requested flexibility in the wording of the contribution to allow for various village hall facility options, such as expansion or upgrading of existing facilities, rather than solely a new village hall.

Officers clarified that the Local Plan and Horsmonden Neighbourhood Plan⁷ specifically require a new village hall, and that an outline consent for a village hall already exists on a separate site (HO2 Brenchley Road).

Councillor Pound asked about the landscaping condition regarding the replanting of orchards, and was assured by officers that the standard wording for tree replacement would be included.

Councillor Dawlings raised the Parish Council's concern about the wording for the village hall contribution. Officers explained that Section 26 wording is subject to negotiation, but that adopted policies clearly indicate a need for a new village hall. They also clarified that a previous outline permission for dwellings and a new village hall at Brenchley Road had been approved, but reserve matters were still pending.

Councillor Kent inquired about the timeframe for the orchard condition, and was informed it would typically be five to ten years.

Councillor Neville asked about the flexibility of the Section 106 allocation for the community centre, and was advised that the development strategy is set out in adopted documents, including the Horsmonden Neighbourhood Plan, which requires a new village hall.

Councillor Johnson raised a question about the KCC new school land requirement no longer being needed, and was informed by officers that this was due to the adoption of the Local Plan clarifying secondary school provision, with existing schools being extended rather than a new site being required.

Councillor Neville proposed, and Councillor Pound seconded, a motion to accept the officers' recommendation to approve the application. The vote was unanimous.

The meeting also noted reports on planning enforcement activity and appeal decisions. The next Planning Committee meeting was scheduled for Wednesday 24 June 2026.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

This week in Tunbridge Wells:

New Mayor and Deputy Mayor Elected as Council Gears Up for the Year Ahead

The Full Council met on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, for its annual meeting, a key event that sets the tone for the council's work over the coming year. The most significant outcomes were the election of a new Mayor and Deputy Mayor, and the re-election of the Leader of the Council.

Councillor Beverley Palmer was elected as the new Mayor of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council for the municipal year 2026-27. Councillor Palmer, a long-serving representative for Hawkhurst, Sandhurst, and Benenden, expressed her commitment to her chosen charities: the Tunbridge Wells Sea Cadets and Hospice in the Weald. Councillor David Osborne, the outgoing Mayor, was recognised for his service, having raised £7,777.77 for the Sea Cadets during his tenure.

Councillor Astra Birch was elected as the Deputy Mayor, securing a majority after a recorded vote. She expressed her gratitude and pride in her new role.

Councillor Ben Chapelard was re-elected as the Leader of the Council for a term ending in 2030. Councillor Justine Rutland, proposed his nomination, highlighting his consistent leadership and commitment to residents. However, Councillor Hugo Pound, speaking for the opposition, raised concerns about a perceived them and us climate and the politicisation of the mayoral election. Councillor Chapelard acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly the local government reorganisation, and reiterated his commitment to delivering for residents.

The council also approved the allocation of seats on various committees, ensuring political balance in line with the Local Government and Housing Act 1989¹. Councillor Chapelard announced his cabinet for the year, with Councillor Justine Rutland appointed as Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development.

The meeting also marked a moment of sadness with the announcement of the passing of Matthew Warne, Mayor's Consort for 2024-25. Tributes were paid to his support for his wife, Nancy, during her mayoral year, despite his own illness.

Read the full Full Council meeting details here

Licensing Sub-Committee Grants Licence for The Pantiles Amidst Noise Concerns

The Licensing Sub-Committee met on Monday, 18 May 2026, to determine a crucial application for a premises licence for The Upper Walk, The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells. The decision to grant the licence, subject to conditions, highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing vibrant community events with the need to protect residents from noise nuisance.

The application by Target Follow (Pantiles) Ltd. faced objections from the Pantiles Residents Association (PRA) and Environmental Health. Residents, including Scott Hunsaker, Lucy Camden, and Ralph Lloyd Roberts, shared personal accounts of how amplified music events had disrupted their lives, impacting sleep, work, and the ability to enjoy their homes, particularly given the Grade 2 listed nature of their properties with single glazing. Environmental Health cited a history of complaints and concluded that the frequency and loudness of events had become an unacceptable impact, violating the licensing objective of preventing public nuisance.

A key point of contention was the proposed noise limit. While Target Follow initially suggested a guideline, the PRA and Environmental Health advocated for an enforceable limit of 81 decibels (dB). This figure, agreed upon by acoustic experts from both sides, represents a significant concession from residents who noted that the standard Pop Code of Practice limit is 75 dB. The committee ultimately decided to impose this 81 dB limit as a condition, not a guideline, ensuring it is enforceable.

Other critical conditions agreed upon include:

• Zero amplified daytime live music events between May and September.
• A maximum of 21 amplified evening music events between May and September.
• No amplified evening music events following an organised daytime event on the same day.
• Robust independent monitoring of sound levels at each amplified music event throughout the season.
• A clear noise complaint procedure, including a published telephone number and a logbook of complaints and actions taken.
• The new licence will only take effect upon the surrender of the existing bandstand licence, ensuring a single, coherent set of controls.

The committee's decision to grant the licence, with these stringent conditions, aims to strike a balance between supporting local businesses and preserving the quality of life for residents. The focus on enforceable limits and robust monitoring reflects the council's commitment to addressing public nuisance effectively.

Read the full Licensing Sub-Committee meeting details here

This week in Tunbridge Wells:

Major Waste and Recycling Contract on the Horizon

The Full Council met on Wednesday, 22 April 2026, to discuss a contract that will shape how your household waste is collected and recycled for years to come. This is the council's largest commissioned contract, and its renewal is crucial for maintaining essential services.

The proposed contract, a joint venture with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council as part of the South West Kent Waste Partnership, is set to be awarded to Bidder A for a period of 12 years, with an option to extend by a further two years. This decision has significant implications for the environment and the council's budget.

What this means for you:

• No immediate change to collections: Your current waste and recycling collection methods and frequencies will remain the same.
• Enhanced recycling: The contract includes plans to incorporate carton collections from April and flexible plastics in the future, aiming to improve the borough's recycling rates.
• Sustainability focus: The contract commits to achieving net-zero targets over its duration, aligning with the council's environmental goals.

The report highlighted the importance of sustainability, with a commitment to achieving net-zero targets over the contract's duration. This is a critical step in the council's ongoing efforts to manage waste responsibly and contribute to a greener future.

Read the full Full Council meeting details here

Community Safety Plan Aims to Tackle Rising Concerns

The Full Council also considered the Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership Plan for 2026-27. This plan is developed under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998¹, which mandates collaboration between agencies to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.

The priorities for the upcoming year are starkly focused on issues that directly impact residents' safety and well-being:

• Domestic Abuse: A critical area of focus, with plans to enhance support for victims.
• Anti-Social Behaviour and Business-related Crime: Addressing nuisance behaviour that affects daily life and local businesses.
• Substance Misuse and Alcohol Abuse: Tackling the root causes of crime and disorder.
• Road Safety: Improving the safety of our roads for all users.
• Violence, Stalking, Harassment, and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG): A crucial focus on protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring personal safety.

The report detailed the strategic assessment of the previous year's performance and outlined proposed actions. This plan is vital for ensuring that vulnerable groups, including victims of domestic abuse and those affected by anti-social behaviour, receive the necessary support and protection.

Read the full Full Council meeting details here

Questions Raised on Royal Victoria Place and Local Commitments

During the Full Council meeting, several important questions were raised by both councillors and members of the public, shedding light on key local issues.

Mr James Tansley posed several questions to Councillor Justine Rutland regarding the ongoing regeneration of Royal Victoria Place. His concerns included the justification for taxpayer subsidies for businesses within the development, the basis for revenue projections given past losses, and the engagement with the Victoria Snooker Centre regarding its potential demolition. Mr Tansley also sought clarity on the timeline for a public debate on the future of Royal Victoria Place. These questions highlight resident interest in the financial prudence and community impact of major town centre developments.

Councillor Matthew Sankey questioned Councillor Justine Rutland about the local delivery of Liberal Democrat commitments, such as VAT cuts for hospitality and CCTV funding, particularly where these fall outside the Council's direct control. This points to the complexities of local government in delivering on promises that rely on national policy.

Councillor Jayne Sharratt inquired about the possibility of offering creative and leisure adult courses at The Amelia, following Kent County Council's departure from the facilities. This question addresses the future use of community assets and the provision of local educational and cultural opportunities.

Read the full Full Council meeting details here

Other Matters

Active Travel and Highway Works on the Agenda

The Joint Transportation Board met on Monday, 20 April 2026, to discuss progress on active travel projects and the highway works programme. These initiatives are crucial for improving local infrastructure for walking, cycling, and wheeling, benefiting residents' health and reducing traffic congestion.

Key updates included:

• Route Designs: Progress on routes in Langton Green, Rusthall, and Royal Tunbridge Wells, with funding for detailed designs and consultations underway.
• Secure Bike Parking: Plans for new secure bike hangars in the town centre to encourage cycling.
• Safer Routes to School: Designs being prepared for safer walking and cycling infrastructure around schools in St John's and St James Wards.
• Highway Works: Updates on road resurfacing, footway improvements, drainage, and street lighting across the borough.

A particular point of concern was Cornford Lane, where residents have raised issues about safety, gridlock, and environmental damage. The board was to investigate a Signs & Lines project for this area.

The board also considered the allocation of Parish Fund grants for highway improvement projects, with various parishes submitting bids for local road enhancements.

Read the full Joint Transportation Board meeting details here

Licensing Sub-Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Licensing Sub-Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, 20 April 2026, was cancelled.

This week in Tunbridge Wells:

Homes Approved Amidst Resident Concerns

The Planning Committee met on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, to consider several applications, with a new dwelling in Langton Green sparking significant debate. While the committee ultimately approved the development, local residents voiced strong objections regarding its impact on the neighbourhood's character.

New Dwelling Approved at 23 Newlands, Langton Green

Planning permission was granted for a new dwelling and landscaping at 23 Newlands, Langton Green. Local resident David Bramble argued that the development would negatively affect the open and spacious character of the estate and limit future housing choices. He expressed concern that the proposed building's dimensions were still too imposing.

Charlie Cadswell, representing the applicant, countered that the proposal represented a small windfall development that makes efficient use of land within existing settlements. He highlighted that the current application differed significantly from a previous scheme for ten dwellings that was dismissed on appeal in 2019, noting this new proposal is for a single 1.5-storey dwelling set further from neighbouring boundaries. Amendments were made to address community concerns, including moving the building further from neighbouring properties and removing first-floor windows facing one neighbour.

Councillor Senke, the ward member, had called in the application due to concerns about the impact of the built form on neighbouring amenity, specifically overbearing impact, loss of outlook, and enclosure. He also noted the relevant planning history and significant local concern.

Councillor Pound proposed approving the officer's recommendation, acknowledging that while local residents would be upset, the site was large and the development was within the limits of built development. Councillor Pitts seconded the motion, adding that the proposed dwelling had been amended to reduce harm to neighbouring properties and that the design was in keeping with the area. A condition was added regarding the submission of details for the chimney design. The decision was unanimous.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

Alterations to Longford House Approved

Changes to Longford House, at 19 Mount Ephraim Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, were approved. The application sought permission for a change of use from offices to a healthcare establishment (Use Class C2), along with the construction of a mansard roof extension, courtyard infill, and alterations to the fire staircase and underground car park.

Richard Hazelgrove, presenting the application, explained that the previous permission for a surgery clinic had minimal external changes, whereas this application included a mansard roof and a re-clad fire escape. He confirmed that while some undercroft parking would be removed, it would be re-provided, resulting in no net loss of parking spaces.

Councillor Darrah expressed concern about parking arrangements, but Mr Hazelgrove assured the committee that the parking issue had been carefully reviewed, with no net loss of spaces and consideration given to the sustainable location and potential for alternative travel modes. Councillor Pound inquired about noise conditions related to the mansard roof, and an informative was added to encourage surveyors to consider noise impacts on nearby properties in Lime Hill Road. Councillor Neville proposed accepting the officer's recommendation, seconded by Councillor Darrah, with the additional informative regarding noise testing. The decision was unanimous.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

Changes to Use and Signage in The Pantiles Approved

Several applications relating to properties in The Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, were approved.

• Foundation, Dowding, Frant and Royal Victoria Houses, The Corn Exchange, and Sussex Mews: Permission was granted for the addition of Use Class F1A (education) to existing commercial premises. Ms Starkey explained that the aim was to enhance the range of facilities available. Councillor Pound proposed approving the officer's recommendation, stating that any development contributing to the regeneration of The Pantiles was positive. The decision was unanimous.

• 27 The Pantiles (Advertisement Consent): Retrospective advertisement consent was granted for a hanging sign and an A-frame display board at 27 The Pantiles. Mr Murphy explained that the signs were common features in The Pantiles and would not appear incongruous. Councillor Kent expressed concerns about the A-frame board's accessibility for visually impaired people and suggested a condition for it to be placed next to the building. An informative was agreed upon to recommend its proximity to the building's frontage. The decision was unanimous.

• 27 The Pantiles (Listed Building Consent): Listed building consent was granted for a fascia sign at 27 The Pantiles. Mr Murphy stated that the sign did not impact the historic fabric of the Grade 2 listed building and was reversible. While conservation and urban design officers would have preferred hand-painted lettering, no harm was identified. Councillor Darrah suggested a condition that the sign be temporary for the current tenant, but it was explained that listed building consent relates to the fabric of the building, and the current sign was deemed acceptable. Councillor Neville proposed accepting the officer's recommendation, seconded by Councillor Pitts, and the decision was unanimous.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here

Other Matters

Minutes of Previous Meeting Confirmed

The minutes of the previous Planning Committee meeting held on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, were confirmed as a true record of the proceedings.

Read the full Planning Committee meeting details here